Cryptojacking is a type of cyberattack in which attackers hijack a victim's computer or mobile device to mine cryptocurrency without the victim's consent. Cryptocurrency mining is the process of using computing power to solve complex mathematical problems in order to verify transactions on a blockchain network and earn cryptocurrency as a reward.
Cryptojacking attacks can be carried out through a variety of methods, including:
Malicious websites: Attackers can inject malicious code into websites that, when visited by a victim, will install cryptocurrency mining malware on the victim's device.
Drive-by downloads: Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in web browsers or operating systems to download and install cryptocurrency mining malware on the victim's device without their knowledge or consent.
Phishing emails: Attackers can send phishing emails that contain links to malicious websites or attachments that contain cryptocurrency mining malware.
Malware: Attackers can spread cryptocurrency mining malware through traditional malware vectors, such as email attachments, USB drives, and peer-to-peer networks.
Once cryptocurrency mining malware is installed on a victim's device, it will start mining cryptocurrency in the background. The malware will use the victim's computing power to solve complex mathematical problems and earn cryptocurrency for the attacker. This can significantly slow down the victim's device and increase their energy bills.
How to protect yourself from cryptojacking attacks
There are a number of things that you can do to protect yourself from cryptojacking attacks, such as:
Keep your software up to date. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect you from known vulnerabilities.
Use a reputable antivirus program. A good antivirus program can help to detect and remove cryptocurrency mining malware.
Be careful about what links you click on and what attachments you open in emails. Phishing emails are a common way for attackers to spread cryptocurrency mining malware.
Use a content blocker. A content blocker can help to block malicious websites and prevent them from installing cryptocurrency mining malware on your device.
If you suspect that your device has been infected with cryptocurrency mining malware, you should run a full system scan with your antivirus program and remove any malware that is found. You should also change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all of your online accounts.
How Azure AD Identity Governance can help protect Sam's Scoops from cryptojacking attacks
Azure AD Identity Governance can help protect Sam's Scoops from cryptojacking attacks by:
Monitoring user activity and identifying anomalous behavior. Azure AD can detect if a user is mining cryptocurrency on their device by monitoring their CPU and GPU usage.
Restricting access to privileged resources. Azure AD can restrict access to the resources that cryptocurrency mining malware needs to operate, such as the CPU and GPU.
Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices. Azure AD Identity Governance can be used to educate employees about the dangers of cryptojacking and how to avoid becoming a victim.
By using Azure AD Identity Governance, Sam's Scoops can reduce their risk of being infected with cryptocurrency mining malware and protect their sensitive data.
